Related Topics

Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)

When ptosis, or a droopy eyelid, is affecting your child’s vision and learning, our team of pediatric ophthalmologists will do whatever it takes to help your child achieve the best vision possible. If the ptosis is related to a neurological or another condition, we work closely with pediatric specialists around Nemours to treat your child’s vision problem.

Learn More About Ptosis in Children

Ptosis (“toe-sis”) or droopy eyelid may involve one or both upper eyelids. Sometimes an eyelid can be so droopy that it blocks vision or causes a child to hold his or her head in an abnormal position in order to see well. Ptosis may be present at birth (congenital) or show up later in life (acquired).

What are some of the causes of ptosis?

One of the most common causes of droopy eyelids is poor development of the muscle in the upper eyelid, but ptosis of the eyelid can also be caused by neurological conditions that affect the nerves and/or muscles of the eyelid, or rarely by an eyelid mass.

Depending upon the severity of the ptosis and how the drooping eyelid is affecting your child's vision and learning, Nemours ophthalmologists at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children may recommend treatment for ptosis, possibly including prescription glasses or surgery.

Specialized Training in Pediatric Ophthalmology

Nemours pediatric ophthalmologists (meaning they've completed a residency in pediatric ophthalmology and are trained specifically in pediatric eye problems) offer comprehensive eye examinations and testing in order to diagnose and treat infant, childhood, and adolescent eye disorders. And, if needed to help treat your child's ptosis, they have the skill and experience to perform pediatric eye surgery.

If you see information that needs updating or if you encounter a missing page or link, please let us know.
To request an appointment, please contact us by phone.

If this is a medical emergency or if you have an urgent health-related question, please call 911
or contact your local emergency number.

Please do not submit personal medical information through this form. We cannot offer medical advice online.
We won’t use contact information you provide on this form for marketing or solicitation purposes.
Thank you for helping us.